Hospital superbugs could be destroyed by covering bed rails and door knobs with sheeting inspired by a shark's skin, according to new research.

The creatures' rippled skin stops bacteria sticking to them in the sea and causing infection - meaning they simply wash off.

Scientists - Material - Antimicrobials - Texture - Sharks

Now scientists have designed a coating material infused with antimicrobials - that is based on this patterned diamond-like texture of sharks's skin.

They hope it will help combat growing resistance to antibiotics which the World Health Organisation has described as a 'global emergency.'

Professor - James - Watkins - University - Massachusetts

Professor James Watkins, of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and colleagues produced plastic and ceramic coverings - making them viable for a range of objects.

He said potentially deadly microorganisms infect patients directly or indirectly through contact with contaminated high-touch surfaces.

Prof - Watkins - Antibiotics - Way - Bacteria

Prof Watkins said: 'Although commercial antibiotics are the most common way to kill bacteria, their misuse and overuse have led to widespread antibiotic resistance.'

This has resulted in more than two million infections and 23,000 deaths a year in the U.S. alone.

Prof - Watkins - Coatings - Surfaces - Bed

Prof Watkins said: 'New coatings for high-touch surfaces, such as bed rails, door knobs, etc, that both limit the attachment of microorganisms and inactivate the persistent microbes are in high demand.'

Drawing inspiration from nature the diamond-like riblets on the skin of sharks facilitate self-cleaning, he said.

Prof - Watkins - Sharks - Years - Subject

Prof Watkins said sharks - which have been around for 400 million years - are often the subject of TV specials or news stories focusing on their attacks on humans.